Is There Caffeine in Matcha?

Is There Caffeine in Matcha?

To be brief, yes. There is indeed caffeine in matcha. And there is indeed caffeine in green tea. But if matcha was supposed to be a major alternative to coffee, what then makes Matcha different from coffee? There is still a major difference in the moderate amount of caffeine contained in matcha in comparison to coffee. So, how much caffeine is really in you matcha green tea latte? Or even in your other green tea drinks?

How Much Caffeine is in Matcha?

A smaller serving of matcha is equivalent to about 30 to 35 mg of caffeine, but this caffeine content ranges based on how much matcha you normally drink. This one serving — 1/2 teaspoon of matcha powder — contains half the amount of caffeine that would be in one singular cup of coffee. If you use 1 teaspoon of Matcha, your caffeine consumption can reach about 72 mg. Generally, if you are an avid coffee drinker trying to wean off or if you are concerned about your caffeine intake, you should only use 1/2 teaspoon of matcha in your drink instead of 1 teaspoon.

It is notable that matcha’s caffeine content varies significantly from coffee. But, how does matcha’s caffeine levels differ from normal tea? Since matcha is made from crushed whole tea leaves, the caffeine content of Matcha should be and usually is higher than that of bagged teas. While standard and regular green tea falls around 30 mg of caffeine, Ceremonial matcha — simply another term for matcha used in tea ceremonies and drinking straight — contains at least 100% more caffeine, usually around the 72 mg mark.

Caffeine in Matcha vs. Caffeine in Coffee

So, do the caffeine contents in Matcha and coffee differ in ways other than the caffeine intensity? Again, to be frank, yes. Matcha has l-theanine, which interacts with caffeine in a unique and healthy manner. Intaking this amino acid can enhance immunity and are even known to be “effective strategies” for increasing focus and relaxation levels.

Caffeine in matcha, most importantly, does not cause crashes that normally occur when you drink coffee. Since the caffeine in matcha attaches to certain catechin molecules that ultimately slow down the dissemination of caffeine, matcha provides you with more sustainable energy, lasting 6 to 8 hours. If you are curious about what is chemically happening with your body when you drink matcha, the caffeine bound to these molecules prevents insulin and adrenaline spikes that are infamously mentioned for coffee intake. The caffeine in Matcha also has diminished effects because the potential negative effects are balanced by the relaxation initiated by l-theanine.

Matcha Caffeine: The Verdict

Matcha appears to be better and healthier than coffee in terms of the caffeine’s effect on the human body for each type of drinker. Although some individuals seek this refreshing energy that only Matcha and its caffeine can make you feel, there will undoubtedly be avid coffee drinkers who still need their latte. But, should you be actively seeking this sustainable energy and intaking caffeine in the most healthy manner you possibly can? To be brief, yes.

Cole Singer

Author

Ex-New Yorker. Traveled all the way to California to experience matcha tea in its finest form. Has been thriving ever since.